Choosing Wisely®

Screening for Cervical Cancer in Women Younger than 30 Years of Age

Recommendation

Don’t screen women younger than 30 years of age for cervical cancer with HPV testing, alone or in combination with cytology.

There is adequate evidence that the harms of HPV testing, alone or in combination with cytology, in women younger than 30 years of age are moderate.

The harms include more frequent testing and invasive diagnostic procedures such as colposcopy and cervical biopsy.

Abnormal screening test results are also associated with psychological harms, anxiety and distress.

This recommendation is provided solely for informational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for consultation with a medical professional. Patients with any specific questions about this recommendation or their individual situation should consult their physician.